In 2010 he was appointed to a second five-year term as the ABC's Managing Director.[3] His time at the ABC has been marked by extensive change, including the creation of ABC3, a digital TV channel for children, and the 24-hour news channel ABC News 24, as well as a major expansion into digital and on-line technology and an expansion of quality drama.[4][5] Scott has been a strong defender of the value of social media in journalism[6] and skeptical on the capacity of news organisations to charge for content they have previously provided free of charge.[7]

On 13 June 2011, Scott was named an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to media and communications, and to the community through advisory and governance roles with a range of social justice and educational bodies.[8]